The efficacy and tolerability of doxycycline and mefloquine in malaria prophylaxis of the ISAF troops in Afghanistan

Abstract

Objectives: Afghanistan is one of the endemic regions of chloroquine resistant P. falciparum. Mefloquine and doxycycline are among the recommended prophylactic regimes. The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy and tolerability of the two regimes on the Turkish soldiers settled in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Methods: A total number of 1400 soldiers were subjected to prophylactic regimes with either doxycycline 100 mg/day (n=986) or mefloquine 250 mg/week (n=414). Prophylaxis lasted about 12 weeks. The side effects and compliances were investigated by questionnaires. All soldiers were monitored up to 6 months after returning home.

Results: No malaria case was observed and there was no severe side effect in either group. The total side effects in doxycycline group were significantly higher (P<0.001). The compliance of mefloquine takers was better than the doxycycline takers (P<0.05).

Conclusions: The tolerability of the mefloquine regime is better than the doxycycline regime in malaria prophylaxis.